Food: other; licensing of butter graders; eliminate. Amends sec. 157 of 2001 PA 267 (MCL 288.717).
Impact
If enacted, HB 4917 would amend existing laws pertaining to food safety and agricultural standards, particularly in the dairy sector. By limiting the grading of butter to state-approved individuals, the bill intends to enhance the integrity of butter marketing and ensure that consumers receive a product that meets high quality standards. The bill's proponents argue that it will bolster public confidence in dairy products while minimizing the potential for fraudulent or inappropriate grading actions that could harm producers and consumers alike.
Summary
House Bill 4917 proposes changes to the 'Manufacturing Milk Law of 2001' specifically related to the grading of butter. The bill stipulates that only graders approved by the state department will have the authority to grade butter, ensuring that the standards for grading align with federal regulations as set in 7 C.F.R. part 58. This change is aimed at standardizing the process of butter grading across the state and ensuring that the grading is performed by qualified personnel. By tightening the licensing requirements, the bill seeks to increase consistency and improve quality control within the butter production industry.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 4917 appears to be generally supportive among those invested in the dairy industry, particularly among producers and regulators who favor higher standards for food safety. The proposed changes are viewed as a positive step toward maintaining the quality of Wisconsin's dairy products, which are crucial to the state's economy. However, there may be some apprehension from smaller producers who may feel burdened by additional regulations or fear that the higher standards might limit competition.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding HB 4917 include the potential financial implications for small-scale butter producers who might struggle to meet the new regulatory standards. Questions have been raised about the balance between consumer protection and economic feasibility for those in the dairy business. While the bill aims to assure quality and safety in butter grading, concerns persist that overly stringent regulations could disproportionately affect smaller enterprises, potentially limiting their market access.
Food: milk; sale of raw milk and raw milk products under the food law; allow. Amends secs. 1107, 1109 & 6140 of 2000 PA 92 (MCL 289.1107 et seq.) & adds secs. 4102a & 4102b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5217'25, HB 5218'25
Food: milk; sale of raw milk and raw milk products under the manufacturing milk law of 2001; allow. Amends secs. 111 & 136 of 2001 PA 267 (MCL 288.671 & 288.696) & adds sec. 70a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5217'25, HB 5219'25
Animals: care and treatment; conducting of research or training activities on dogs in a manner that causes pain or distress; prohibit. Amends secs. 2674, 2675 & 2678 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2674 et seq.); adds secs. 2670 & 2675a & repeals secs. 2672 & 2673 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2672 & 333.2673).
Animals: care and treatment; conducting of research or training activities on dogs in a manner that causes pain or distress; prohibit. Amends secs. 2674, 2675 & 2678 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2674 et seq.); adds secs. 2670 & 2675a & repeals secs. 2672 & 2673 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2672 & 333.2673).